Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad) was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639, and its street food culture is as layered and rich as its history. A morning food walk through Chandni Chowk is among the most exhilarating experiences India has to offer.
Start at Gali Paranthe Wali (Early Morning)
This famous lane off Chandni Chowk has been serving stuffed parathas since 1875. Order the mixed platter with parathas stuffed with potato, paneer, rabri, or dried fruit. Served with six different chutneys and a glass of lassi.
Natraj Dahi Bhalle
A Chandni Chowk institution since 1940. Their dahi bhalle (lentil dumplings in yogurt with tamarind chutney) and aloo tikki are the benchmark against which all others are measured.
Jalebi Wala (Near Dariba Kalan)
The oldest jalebi shop in Delhi (since 1884). These jalebis are thick, crispy, and swimming in warm sugar syrup. Best eaten fresh from the kadhai with a side of rabri.
Karim Restaurant
Tucked in the lanes behind Jama Masjid, Karim has been serving Mughlai cuisine since 1913. Their mutton nihari, seekh kebabs, and mutton burra are legendary.
Jama Masjid Sunset Kebab Walk
The area around Jama Masjid comes alive at dusk with dozens of kebab stalls serving seekh kebab and shami kebab with green chutney and raw onion at very reasonable prices.